Over March Break, my husband Wes and I, along with our kids, Chloe and Wyatt, set sail on a Royal Caribbean cruise for a week of sunshine, ocean breezes, and unforgettable family fun. This was our fourth cruise, and each one—whether with Carnival, Royal Caribbean, or Disney—has brought unique experiences, unforgettable memories, and, of course, endless photo opportunities. (Check out my Instagram reel for the highlights!)
Here’s something that might surprise you—I leave my professional camera at home when we travel. As much as I love my gear, lugging around something so valuable makes me a little nervous. More importantly, I want to be fully present with my family, soaking in every fleeting moment.
That doesn’t mean I don’t take photos—I just use my iPhone instead! And honestly, it’s all you need to capture incredible vacation memories.
The best part? You don’t need a fancy camera to take stunning travel photos. With just a few simple tricks, you can capture beautiful, high-quality shots using nothing more than your smartphone. And here are seven easy tips to help you do just that!
1. Use Portrait Mode for a Professional Look
If your phone has a portrait mode, take advantage of it! This feature creates a beautifully blurred background that makes your subject pop, instantly giving your photos a more polished, professional feel. I use this feature a lot, especially for close-up shots of my kids with the ocean behind them. It’s an easy way to elevate your travel photos without needing a DSLR!
2. Play with Light and Shadows
Lighting can make or break a photo, so be on the lookout for interesting light and shadow patterns. Maybe it’s the golden glow of the sunset, the way sunlight filters through your cruise ship balcony, or a palm tree casting a cool shadow on the sand. Natural light is key for stunning travel photography, so don’t be afraid to experiment with different angles to capture a unique and visually stunning shot.
3. Change Your Perspective
Instead of taking every photo at eye level, try switching things up to showcase a unique viewpoint! Get down low to capture your kids splashing in the waves or shoot from above to show off a bustling cruise deck. Playing with different angles can make your travel photos more dynamic and engaging, giving them that extra wow factor.
4. Clean Your Lens for Crystal-Clear Shots
This might seem like a no-brainer, but it’s easy to forget! Travel can leave your phone covered in sunscreen, sand, and fingerprints, which can make your photos look blurry. A quick wipe with a clean cloth (or even your shirt) can instantly improve clarity and sharpness.
5. Don’t Be Afraid to Embrace the Selfie
Sometimes, the best way to capture a moment is to jump in the frame yourself! Bonus points if you can get a gorgeous sunset in the background. I also love to pay it forward—if I see a family struggling to get everyone in the shot, I offer to take a picture for them, and they often return the favor for us. It’s a great way to ensure everyone gets in the photo while spreading some travel kindness!
6. Capture Candid Moments
Not every photo has to be posed. Some of the best travel memories come from spontaneous moments—laughing at dinner, kids running through the waves, or a quiet moment watching the sunset. These candid shots often hold the most emotion and authenticity.
7. Cull and Edit Right Away
It’s easy to snap a million photos of the same thing but take a moment to review them and keep only the best ones. While you’re at it, use your phone’s auto-enhance feature (that little magic wand icon) to instantly boost color and contrast. A little editing right away keeps you organized and ensures your photos look their best!
Travel photography doesn’t need to be complicated. You don’t need a fancy camera to capture incredible travel memories—just a few simple tricks and your smartphone will do the job beautifully. So, the next time you set off on vacation, keep these tips in mind and snap away. After all, the best travel photos aren’t just about the perfect shot—they’re about the moments you’ll never want to forget.
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